Vancouver is a city known for its commitment to sustainability, community support, and creativity. Moving is not only about changes for the better, but also an opportunity to start a new stage of life with ease. If you’re looking to declutter your home, there are plenty of ways to give your old items a new life while contributing to the community and the environment. This article explores options for recycling, donating to charities, supporting organizations for those in need, and engaging in DIY projects in Vancouver. Each section includes practical resources and links to organizations to help you get started.
Recycling
Vancouver has a robust recycling system designed to minimize waste and promote a circular economy. Whether it’s household items, electronics, or textiles, there are several organizations and facilities to help you recycle responsibly.
- Recycle BC
Recycle BC is the go-to organization for recycling packaging and paper products in British Columbia. Their website and app provide detailed sorting guides and help you locate the nearest recycling depot. They manage 98% of collected plastics, much of which is recycled locally in BC. Download their app to find out what goes where and locate depots near you. - Recycling Council of British Columbia (RCBC)
RCBC is a non-profit promoting zero waste through information services. Their Recyclepedia tool and Recycling Hotline offer comprehensive details on recycling everything from electronics to hazardous materials. They also highlight share, reuse, and repair options. - City of Vancouver Zero Waste Centre
The City of Vancouver operates the Zero Waste Centre for items that can’t go in curbside bins, such as electronics, batteries, and small appliances. Check their Waste Wizard tool to learn how to dispose of specific items. - Recycling Alternative
This organization focuses on innovative, community-based recycling models, including a commercial recycling program in Strathcona and food scrap drop-off programs at Vancouver Farmers Markets. They also support zero-waste events.
Tip: Always check item conditions before recycling. Moldy or damaged items, like oil-stained clothes, may need to go in the garbage instead of recycling bins.
Charity
Donating to charities is a great way to give your gently used items a second life while supporting meaningful causes. Vancouver has several organizations that accept donations of clothing, furniture, and household goods.
- Vancouver Foundation
A community foundation connecting donors with charities across BC, Vancouver Foundation supports thousands of community projects. You can set up memorial or donor-advised funds to support causes you care about or donate directly to registered charities.
- Diabetes Canada
Diabetes Canada accepts gently used clothing, electronics, small appliances, and bedding (but not furniture) through free home pick-up services. Donations support diabetes research and programs, and you might even win a prize like a $5,000 vacation. - Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver
This organization supports youth development and accepts clothing, accessories, housewares, and small appliances (no furniture). They offer free pick-up and run prize draws for donors, such as cruises or gift cards. - Vancouver Donations
Supporting MOMS Canada, this program accepts clothing, shoes, baby gear, and household items like kitchenware. They offer free home pick-ups or donation bins across the city to fund support for single mothers.
Tip: Contact charities in advance to confirm what items they accept, as some have specific guidelines (e.g., no torn or soiled items).
Organizations for People in Need
Vancouver is home to organizations dedicated to helping vulnerable populations, such as those experiencing poverty or homelessness. Donating items directly to these groups ensures they reach those who need them most.
- Helping Families in Need Society
This volunteer-run group has been distributing household items to single parents, new immigrants, refugees, and others for over 40 years. They accept gently used furniture (no stains or tears), mattresses (under 8 years old), and household goods. They also collect Canadian Tire money and recyclable cans. - Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver (ReStore)
ReStore accepts donations of furniture, appliances, and building materials, with proceeds funding affordable housing. They offer pick-up services for large items and may provide tax receipts for business donations. Items must be in good condition, with no rips or stains. - HomeStart Foundation
HomeStart provides furniture and household items to families escaping poverty or homelessness. They accept small furniture, electronics, and rugs (no glass items) and charge a $260 fee for pick-up and delivery. - Aunt Leah’s Place
This organization supports mothers in crisis and youth at risk of homelessness. Their thrift store accepts clothing, accessories, small furniture, and household items, which are used to fund housing and support programs. - Covenant House Vancouver
Covenant House supports homeless and at-risk youth, accepting donations of clothing, blankets, and small household items. Contact them to confirm current needs.
Tip: Many organizations work with specific populations, so check their websites to ensure your donations match their needs.
DIY Projects
If you’re feeling creative, you can repurpose old items into something new through DIY projects. Vancouver’s vibrant maker community offers resources and inspiration for upcycling.
- Our Community Bikes
This organization accepts donations of bicycles, parts, and tools, which are refurbished for community programs or resold to fund their work. They also run workshops to teach bike repair, perfect for DIY enthusiasts. Drop off donations during open hours or arrange pick-ups for large quantities. - Vancouver Public Library (VPL) Creation Station
VPL offers a Creation Station with tools like 3D printers, sewing machines, and laser cutters for DIY projects. You can upcycle old clothes into new designs or create unique decor from household items. Check their website for workshops and access details. - City of Vancouver Repair Cafes and Zero Waste Fairs
The City of Vancouver hosts repair cafes and zero-waste fairs where you can learn to mend clothing, furniture, or electronics. These events encourage repurposing items like turning old t-shirts into tote bags or repairing broken furniture - MakerLabs
MakerLabs is a community workshop space in Vancouver with tools for woodworking, metalworking, and textile projects. It’s ideal for transforming old furniture or materials into new creations. They offer memberships and classes for all skill levels.
Tip: Before starting a DIY project, browse platforms like Pinterest or local maker blogs for inspiration, and ensure you have the right tools and space to work safely.
What if we look broader? Metro Vancouver!
- Donate clothing and textiles to thrift stores or programs: Clean, dry clothing (even with holes or single shoes) can go to Salvation Army, Value Village, or Penny Pincher for resale or use as insulation/rags. About 20–25% is resold locally; the rest is exported or repurposed.
- Recycle worn-out textiles: For textiles unfit for donation, use Trans-Continental Textile Recycling bins (97% becomes furniture stuffing, pet toys, or rags). Drop-off at Our Social Fabric or Fabcycle for fabric scraps and sewing supplies — great for upcycling into DIY projects.
- Recycle furniture, mattresses, and household items: Use Metro Vancouver Recycles to find drop-off locations by material or you can always use the help of Vancouver movers (us!) to remove heavy furniture or appliances. Mattresses go to Vancouver Transfer Station or landfills (prepped, no linens).
- Sell or swap on platforms and events: Use Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Kijiji for local sales. Bonus: join Vancouver Buy Nothing Group on Facebook for free exchanges. For upcycling, check workshops at Fab Lab Vancouver (e.g., turn an old table into a coffee table).
- Recycle electronics, batteries, and small items: Drop off electronics at Best Buy, batteries at London Drugs, or ink cartridges at Staples. For toys/sports gear: donate to Right To Play or Recycle BC depots. Surprise option: old eyeglasses to optometrist offices for free redistribution to those in need.
- Repair or upcycle before discarding: Fix items at Repair Cafés. For bikes: Vancouver Bike Recycling takes old ones for parts or refurbishes them for community use.
- Find locations easily: Search by material on Metro Vancouver Recycles for 1000+ options with hours and contacts (call 604-RECYCLE for help). Avoid illegal dumping (fines up to $10,000) — use transfer stations like Vancouver Zero Waste Centre.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Vancouver offers a wealth of options for responsibly handling your old stuff, from recycling and donating to creating something new through DIY projects. By choosing to recycle with organizations like Recycle BC or donating to charities like Helping Families in Need, you can reduce waste and support the community. For creative types, upcycling through Our Community Bikes or MakerLabs provides a fun way to give items a second life. Whatever you choose, Vancouver’s resources make it easy to declutter thoughtfully while making a positive impact.
Note: Always contact organizations directly to confirm donation guidelines or recycling requirements, as policies may change.
